LiuGong and Valvoline Inc have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that will see Valvoline become the Chinese equipment maker’s preferred provider of lubricants for markets outside of China.

Zeng Guang’an, Chairman of Guangxi LiuGong Group and Guangxi LiuGong Machinery, and Kevin Thieneman, LiuGong Vice President of Strategy and Aftermarket, were present at the signing ceremony for the strategic global alliance, held in Houston, Texas.

“Today’s announcement with industry leader Valvoline is another step in our mission to provide complete solutions to our customers,” Zeng said. “And Valvoline is the perfect partner to help us realise this long-term ambition.”

Thieneman added: “Construction equipment customers consistently tell us that they want the lowest total cost of ownership. LiuGong already offers a very competitive machine acquisition cost. The Valvoline partnership enhances the ability of LiuGong and our dealers to keep machines running as well as extend the useful life.”

Craig Moughler, Valvoline Senior Vice President of Product Supply and OEM, said the company had established a strong relationship with LiuGong in many markets and the company was looking forward to expanding this and delivering solutions to LiuGong and its customers.